150 suspicious packages called into APD after two explosions

by Melanie Torre

Austin Police are warning all residents not to touch unexpected packages left at their homes. Two packages exploded Monday but dozens of others were called in to APD.

As of 5 a.m. Tuesday APD Chief Brian Manley says they have received 150 calls about suspicious packages. To put that in perspective, APD received two suspicious package calls last Monday. The data shows people are taking their warning to heart and it's keeping officers busy.

Monday afternoon police shut down Richcreek Road in Central Austin. A package left at a resident's front door had people on edge and unsure of what might be inside. It's a concern spreading though the city.

"It could happen to anybody. It could happen to me, to her ... it could happen to my next door neighbor -- anybody," said East Austin resident Mariano Sanchez. Sanchez lives about four houses away from the woman injured when package exploded on her porch on Galindo Street.

Sanchez said he's not letting his grandchildren get the mail anymore.

"I'm just going to alert all of my family and daughters just to be alert and not to open anything ... not even a letter," he said.

Be aware and play it safe is the message authorities can't stress enough. If you spot an unexpected or suspicious package don't touch it.

"If you have received a package that has been left on your doorstep or left in your yard or left in your driveway… that you were not expecting or was not from someone you know, then give us a call," said Austin Police Chief Brian Manley. "We don't want people to be overly alarmed but it is important that people be vigilant," he added.

Investigators do not believe the packages are being delivered in the mail -- but instead are possibly being dropped off and placed on front door steps by hand. Monday night Austin Mayor Steve Adler said there was no limit to providing APD with whatever they need to solve this case.

"There is no higher priority in this city right now other than these events that are happening and the response to them," said Adler.

Adler said if you're unsure whether or not to call 911 about a package at your home, play it safe and call police. APD said it might take them a while to get to your home because they are getting so many suspicious package calls, but they say making the call is worth saving a life.